Because of the seriousness of Massachusetts highway accidents, it is important to take a few critical steps right away following such an accident.

First, seek medical help immediately. Even if you feel fine, you could be suffering from a concussion or internal injuries that only a thorough emergency room examination can adequately detect. Therefore, following a highway accident, call an ambulance or a friend to take you to the nearest emergency room.

Before you leave the accident scene, you should also write down the other drivers’ contact information, license numbers, license plates and insurance information, as well as any names and contact information of witnesses to the accident. If you are too injured to obtain this information, have a friend or relative – someone you can trust – do it for you.

In addition, report the accident to your auto insurance carrier, but avoid talking to the other driver’s insurance company or any lawyer representing them. These lawyers will often call very soon after a highway accident and offer you a cash settlement. Even if the amount seems reasonable to you at the time, the offer most likely significantly undervalues your claim. Insurance companies have to look out for their own interests, and that often means trying to settle claims involving auto accident victims as quickly and cheaply as possible. In short, while you seek adequate compensation for your injuries, they seek quick and cheap disposal of your personal injury lawsuit and claim.